The Regional Director for East and Central Africa is a senior leadership role responsible for directing and managing TradeMark East Africa’s (TMEA) development and strategy within the region. Reporting to the Chief of Programmes (CoP), the successful candidate will oversee the implementation of TMEA’s Strategy 3 Programme, focusing on regional trade, integration, and geographical expansion. This role involves strategic political engagement, partnership development, and the delivery of coherent multi-country operational strategies.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy Development and implementation (20%)
- Work closely with the CEO, CoP, and Senior Leadership & Management Team (SLMT) to develop and manage TMEA's strategy.
- Implement Strategy 3 Programme and future developments, including potential geographical expansion.
- Lead Country Directors in developing annual business plans for capacity development, policy reforms, and infrastructure development.
- Oversee the development of regional and national programmes and their impact.
- Coordinate Project Appraisal Reports (PARs) for approval by NOCs, Board, and Council.
- Integrate Development Partners’ support where aligned with TMEA goals.
Political, Stakeholder, and Diplomatic Engagement (15%)
- Shape strategic political and diplomatic engagement at the EAC Secretariat and country levels.
- Identify strategic partnerships and fundraising opportunities.
- Represent TMEA at international public events and ministerial-level engagements.
- Promote local procurement to develop East Africa-based service provider capacity.
Programme Development and Delivery (30%)
- Coordinate implementation of operations across regional and country programmes.
- Deliver multi-country operational strategies and allied budgeting/forecasting.
- Manage regional and country risk frameworks and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Monitor performance through KPIs and regular meetings with country teams.
- Ensure implementation of cross-cutting themes: gender, poverty, safeguards, extractives, and climate change.
- Maintain high-calibre financial management (90% disbursement accuracy).
Team Management (15%)
- Provide strategic leadership, mentoring, and coaching to direct reports.
- Oversee professional development and succession planning within programme teams.
- Ensure coordination and integration between different country operations.
Governance and Oversight (10%)
- Lead regional coordination for EAC Secretariat governance structures.
- Support Country Heads in providing support to National Oversight Committees (NOCs).
- Draft high-quality papers for the Board of Directors and Council.
Qualifications and Experience
- Education: Undergraduate or Master’s degree in Economics, Development Studies, International Trade, Planning, Finance, or Management.
- Experience:
- For Undergraduate holders: At least 15 years of work experience, with 7 years in leadership.
- For Master’s holders: At least 13 years of work experience, with 7 years in leadership.
- Minimum of 10 years’ experience managing business units or development programmes related to trade.
- Experience in programme cycle management, political economy analysis, donor management, and fundraising.
- At least 3 years of senior-level experience within East Africa or other developing economies is essential.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply via the TradeMark East Africa (TMEA) LinkedIn page. You can access the application portal through the following link: Apply Here.